Social Work Week concludes at Assam University with bridge of care and compassion

Way2barak, 24 August : Assam University concluded the celebration of National Social Work Week on the theme ‘Bridging Service and Compassion: Social Work in Healthcare’. The closing ceremony organized by the Department of Social Work at Bipin Chandra Pal Auditorium. The programme commenced with a warm welcome speech delivered by Dr. Joyashri Dey. Prof. Tarun Bikash Sukai, Head of the Dept. of Social Work also addressed the gathering and welcomed the guests warmly. In his speech, he expressed appreciation for the continuous efforts of the department in both academic and community activities.

Prof. Subabrata Dutta explained the significance of celebrating the National Social Work Week. He highlighted that the National Association of Professional Social Workers in India (NAPSWI) began observing the week in 2020. The celebration seeks to strengthen the professional identity of social workers, encourage mutual learning, and highlight their contributions to society.

Rabishankar Likmabam, District Development Manager of NABARD shared his views on the marketing of Self-Help Group products. He also highlighted the important role of the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development. Prof. Chira Ranjan Bhattacharjee, Dean, Academic emphasized the importance of social workers in bridging the gap between marginalized communities and the welfare schemes available to them. Prof. Joyati Bhattacharjee expressed her admiration for the chosen theme, stressing that values and compassion, which were more prevalent in earlier times, appear to be fading in contemporary society.

Dr. Chongtham Chanchan, Chief Manager (Micro Finance), State Bank of India elaborated on the concept and importance of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in community development and women’s empowerment. She explained how SHGs, consisting mainly of women from Below Poverty Line families, come together to develop financial discipline, promote savings, and support one another.

Prof. Rajive Mohan Pant, Vice Chancellor praised the efforts of the Department of Social Work for giving importance to the humanitarian side of professional practice. He concluded by expressing his willingness to engage further with the students of the department through classroom interactions in the future. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Prof. Aditi Nath.